🏝️ Yelleswaragattu Island: The Mysterious Isle in Nagarjuna Sagar Backwaters
Ancient Shiva Temples | Trekking | Camping | Stargazing | Nalgonda, Telangana
A forgotten island where time stands still. Before the Nagarjuna Sagar Dam was built, the hill of Yelleswaragattu was connected to the mainland. Pilgrims used to walk from this temple to Srisailam (≈110 km away) as part of an ancient route. When the reservoir filled up, the hill became an island, and the temples (dedicated to Lord Shiva) were nearly forgotten. Today, a handful of fishermen and adventurous travellers rediscover its magic.
The journey is part of the adventure: a trek through dry fields and thorny bushes, a steep descent to the lake, and a 20‑minute boat ride to the island. On top of the hill, you’ll find two ancient Shiva temples – the original idol has been moved, but the spiritual energy remains. The panoramic view of the Nallamala hills reflected in the blue water is breathtaking. At night, the absence of light pollution makes for spectacular stargazing. Bring your own tent, food, and water – there are no facilities.
🗺️ How to Reach Yelleswaragattu Island
Step 1 – Drive to Kambalapally / Peddamunigal village: From Hyderabad, take NH65 towards Suryapet, then turn towards Chandampet Mandal (≈169 km, 3 hours). You can also take a bus to Devarakonda or Kambalapally (limited services; a private vehicle is recommended).
Step 2 – Trek to the lake (1–2 hours): From Kambalapally, trek through dry fields, thorny bushes, and a steep descent of about 200 metres to reach the backwaters. Alternatively, you can drive to the “Vizag Colony Boating Center” in Peddamunigal village (a few km away) for a shorter walk.
Step 3 – Boat ride to the island (≈20 minutes): Fishermen from the nearby village offer boat trips. A casual round trip costs about ₹200 per person. For an overnight stay, you can hire a private boat for ≈₹1,500 (including waiting time and return). Boats are small – life jackets may not be provided; use at your own risk.
Step 4 – Trek to the temple on the island: Once on the island, a short trek up the hill (10–15 minutes) leads to the Eleshwaram Mallanna Temple (ancient Shiva temple). There is also a second, even older temple nearby. The sunrise view from the top is magical.
⏰ Visitor Information
📍 Address & Access
Yelleswaragattu Island / Eleshwaram Mallanna Temple
Near Kambalapally Village, Chandampet Mandal,
Nalgonda District, Telangana – 508246
Access via: Boat from Peddamunigal / Kambalapally lake edge
📞 Local Contact
Fishermen / Boat operators: Enquire at Kambalapally or Peddamunigal village.
No official tourism office – operate through local villagers.
🌐 Online Info
🕐 Best Time & Essentials
Best Season: October – February (pleasant weather, good water levels).
Avoid: Monsoon (water may be above danger level – risky) and peak summer (extreme heat, no shade).
Entry Fee: Free (boat ride paid separately).
Facilities: None – no shops, no toilets, no drinking water. Come fully prepared.
⚠️ Important Note
The island has no permanent habitation. Carry all supplies: tent, sleeping bag, food, water (at least 3 litres per person), torch, power bank, first‑aid kit. Mobile network is very weak or absent – inform someone of your plans.
🧭 Suggested Itinerary – 2 Days / 1 Night (Camping)
Day 1 – Hyderabad → Kambalapally → Yelleswaragattu Island
- 8:00 AM: Depart from Hyderabad (carry packed lunch, snacks, water, camping gear).
- 11:00 AM: Arrive at Kambalapally / Peddamunigal village. Park vehicle (safe space available).
- 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM: Trek to the lake (1–2 hours).
- 1:00 PM: Have lunch by the lake (packed).
- 2:00 PM: Arrange boat with local fishermen (negotiate fare).
- 2:30 PM – 3:00 PM: Boat ride to Yelleswaragattu Island (≈20 min).
- 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Trek up to the temple, explore the two Shiva shrines, enjoy the panoramic view.
- 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM: Set up camp (tent) near the temple (flat areas available).
- 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM: Sunset photography, cook dinner (carry stove or make campfire – check forest regulations).
- 8:00 PM onwards: Stargazing. Bring a telescope if you have one – the night sky is spectacular with zero light pollution.
- Overnight stay in tent.
Day 2 – Sunrise & Return
- 5:30 AM: Wake up, watch the sunrise from the temple hill – the view of the sun rising over the backwaters is unforgettable.
- 6:30 AM – 8:00 AM: Breakfast (packed), pack up camp.
- 8:30 AM: Trek down to the boat landing point, call the fisherman (arrange return time the previous day).
- 9:00 AM – 9:30 AM: Boat ride back to the mainland.
- 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM: Trek back to the village.
- 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM: Freshen up (no facilities – use wet wipes).
- 12:30 PM: Drive back to Hyderabad. Lunch en route at Devarakonda or Suryapet.
- 4:00 PM: Arrive Hyderabad.
✨ What Makes Yelleswaragattu Special
The island was originally a hillock that became an island after the dam’s construction. The temples are said to be from the Kakatiya period. The main temple’s original idol was moved and is now at the Sri Devi Bhoodevi Ranganaswamy Temple in Anupu (on the mainland). The pilgrim route from this temple to Srisailam (≈110 km) was used by devotees long before the reservoir existed.
Fishing is the main livelihood of the nearby villagers. You can buy fresh catch from them and cook it on the island (carry your own cooking supplies). The local fishermen are friendly and can guide you to the best spots.
🏞️ Nearby Attractions
🎒 Essential Gear & Travel Tips
⚠️ Critical safety advisory: There are no facilities – no toilets, no fresh water, no rescue services. The boat operators are local fishermen – ensure they understand your return time. Do not visit during monsoon (water level rises dangerously; boating becomes risky). The trek involves thorny bushes and a steep slope – wear sturdy hiking boots and long trousers. Camp only on designated flat areas near the temple – avoid loose edges. This is a primitive camping experience for experienced trekkers and campers, not a tourist resort.
🍴 Food & Supplies
There are no shops or restaurants on the island or near the lake. You must carry everything you need:
- Pack lunch, dinner, and breakfast for your stay.
- Carry sufficient drinking water – you cannot consume lake water.
- You can buy fresh fish from local fishermen at the lake edge – ask them to clean it for you. Bring your own cooking oil, spices, and utensils.
- A small grocery shop exists in Kambalapally village (vegetables, rice, basic supplies) – but it is limited. Best to carry from Hyderabad.
🙏 Conclusion – An Adventurer’s Paradise
Yelleswaragattu Island is not for everyone – it demands preparation, self‑reliance, and a spirit of adventure. But for those who make the effort, the rewards are immense: ancient temples, breathtaking views, a night under a billion stars, and the quiet solitude of being surrounded by water. It is one of Telangana’s best‑kept secrets. Plan your trip between October and February, pack wisely, and leave nothing behind but footprints.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is there any accommodation on the island?
A: No. You must bring your own tent and camping gear.
Q: Are there any toilets?
A: No. Be prepared for open defecation (carry a trowel and toilet paper).
Q: Can we visit without a tent (day trip only)?
A: Yes, you can do a day trip: trek, boat ride, explore the temple, and return. Start early to be back before dark.
Q: How much does the boat cost?
A: Approximately ₹200 per person for a casual round trip. Overnight/private hire about ₹1,500 for the whole boat (negotiate).
Q: Is there mobile network on the island?
A: BSNL may work weakly in some spots; others have no signal. Inform your family of your itinerary before leaving.
Q: Can we swim in the backwaters?
A: Not recommended – water depth unknown, strong currents, and no lifeguards.
📚 References & More Information
- Telangana Today – Unwind on this mysterious isle at Nagarjunasagar Dam
- Hyderabad Trekker – Yelleswaragattu Island Trek
- HydNews – Yelleswaragattu Island (July 2021)
- Tripoto – Mysterious Island (Yelleswaragattu)
- Telangana Tourism – Nagarjuna Sagar Circuit
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